Dhaka, Bangladesh — A year after the ousting of Sheikh Hasina’s authoritarian regime, the interim government led by Nobel laureate Mohammed Yunus is struggling to fulfill its human rights commitments, according to a report by Human Rights Watch (HRW) released on Thursday.

While the widespread fear and repression under Hasina’s 15-year rule have diminished, the interim government has been accused of arbitrary detentions targeting political opponents and failing to implement systemic reforms. “The dreams of those who risked their lives to oppose Hasina’s oppressive rule remain unrealized,” said Meenakshi Ganguly, HRW’s deputy Asia director.

The government faces mounting challenges, including a rise in mob violence, political unrest, and attacks on journalists and minority groups. Recent incidents include the destruction of Hindu homes in Rangpur and ongoing violations in the Chittagong Hill Tracts.

Hasina fled the country on August 5, 2024, following protests that claimed 1,400 lives. The Yunus-led interim government, established days later, has yet to address critical issues like security sector reform, despite ongoing reports of torture and custodial deaths.

HRW highlighted cases of politically motivated arrests, including the detention of former North Dhaka mayor Mohammad Atiqul Islam, who faces 68 murder charges—36 of which allegedly occurred while he was abroad. Many detainees report being denied medical care and bail.

While the government has formed commissions to investigate past abuses, including enforced disappearances, progress has been slow. Security forces have been accused of obstructing investigations, and key figures implicated in crimes have fled the country.

HRW urged the interim government to end arbitrary detentions, prosecute security force members accused of abuses, and prioritize women’s rights. International stakeholders were called upon to support these efforts through targeted sanctions and accountability measures.

“The interim government faces immense challenges, but immediate action is needed to secure lasting human rights improvements in Bangladesh,” Ganguly emphasized.